Struggles of Indian rural women entrepreneurs in the light of socio-cultural marginalization

Abstract

India is an emerging market and has consolidated its position as one of the fastest growing markets for emerging tech companies. With over a hundred unicorns, the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem is the third largest in the world today in terms of unicorns. To add to it this fact gets reinforced by the pace at which these unicorns have formed with over 42 startups attaining unicorn status in 2022 alone. A strong backing by the government through various initiatives and schemes, the Indian entrepreneur is earning its name across the global markets. However, if one looks deeper into the successful growth of India, one will realize that the growth story while fast, has left behind a key demographic group, which is women. No matter what the economic growth and development levels the country has been attaining, it still does not account for inclusive and equal growth in its gender space. The participation of women in its workforce has somewhat stagnated and is expected to decline further due to the trends in the labour market, the advent of technology as a competitor for labour and the existing discrimination and unfavorable social conditions for women in the country. One of the most important requirements for the general expansion of the economy in India is the social and economic development of women. But in Indian civilizations, where the system has long been dominated by men, ingrained traditions have always stood in the way of women's advancement. Indian women have repeatedly shown their mettle in the face of difficulties, no matter what kind they were, and have inspired others in their fields. In every sphere of life, they have partnered with men, and business is no different. The driving force behind women entrepreneurs is their ability to make decisions on their own in both their personal and professional lives. Women in leadership positions today are outspoken, articulate, and risk-takers. Therefore, leveraging the talent and skills of Indian women is crucial in achieving strong economic growth.